Saigoji Temple located in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture is a historic temple of the Jishu sect, which was founded in 1353 by the priest Icchin, the sixth Traveling Saint (Yugyō Shōnin). The massive temple gate at the top of the stone steps is said to have been constructed by Ashikaga Takauji in the same year. The typical architectural style in the Muromachi period (1336-1573) can be seen in the designs using the frog-leg struts and the bargeboard.
The old and dignified main hall together with the main gate is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The simple design in the Yosemune-zukuri style with the boat-shaped bracket arms is very beautiful. The main hall includes the 3-bay naijin (the inner sanctum) surrounded by the gaijin (worship hall) space, which is typical to the Jodo sect. This is the oldest temple structure of the Jishu sect.
The main hall is also known for the roaring dragon ceiling. When clapping hands in prayer in the hall, the sound of “BWANG BWANG” echoes off the ceiling. The main object of worship, the standing statue of Amida Nyorai, is very unique, for it can be decomposed into the five parts for portability. This is because Ashikaga Takauji carried it to the battle fields as his guardian deity.